International Christian Embassy Jerusalem, 22 July 2010

The National Council of Churches Australia (NCCA), the nation's largest ecumenical body, met last week for its 7th Triennial Forum, which resulted in a statement asking Australians to consider boycotting goods produced by Israeli settlements in the West Bank in solidarity with Palestinian Christians.

"We are asking the member Churches of the NCCA to consider boycotting particular goods produced in Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. It is hoped that such actions will liberate the people from an experience of injustice to one where a just and definitive peace may be reached," said the Rev. Tara Curlewis, General Secretary of the Council. "The NCCA welcomes the easing of the Israeli blockade of Gaza in recent days and calls for an immediate end to the blockade. The NCCA will stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine and act for an end to the injustice and suffering borne by the people."

A motion passed during the meeting also affirmed the right of Israel and a Palestinian State to exist "within secure internationally recognized borders."

A copy of the resolution will be forwarded to the new Prime Minister of Australia, who is reported to be friendly to Israel, as well as the Minister for Foreign Affairs, members of Federal Parliament, the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, and the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils.

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